Are you a changemaker passionate about shaping how electricity systems evolve to meet growing demand with clean energy? Do you enjoy working at the intersection of technical analysis, regulatory processes, and stakeholder engagement? If so, this role may be for you.
We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.
Application deadline: Friday July 24th, 11:59pm CT
Program Overview
RMI’s Carbon-Free Electricity (CFE) Program supports the rapid and equitable decarbonization of electricity systems globally to support modern, clean economies the world over. We work to advance affordability for customers and communities, meet load growth with clean energy to enable economic prosperity, and remove barriers to rapid clean energy deployment.
We work closely with utilities, regulators, businesses, advocates, and customers to evolve grid institutions, policies, regulations, business models, and processes in support of the transition to a clean energy future. We employ a unique combination of research, consulting, and collaboration to support individuals and organizations to innovate and implement transformative energy solutions.
Position Overview
RMI is seeking a Senior Associate to contribute to and lead work at the intersection of utility planning, large load integration, and regulatory engagement. This role will support efforts to improve planning practices, scale demand flexibility, and develop innovative solutions for new electricity demand to be met with clean, cost-effective resources.
A successful candidate will bring a strong foundation in utility integrated resource planning and regulatory processes, along with the ability to manage projects and engage diverse stakeholders. You will work closely with regulators, advocates, utilities, and large energy users to provide technical assistance, facilitate dialogue, and develop actionable insights.
This role is well-suited for someone who is both analytically rigorous and externally oriented, with an interest in facilitating conversations and advancing real-world change. Examples of projects you may contribute to include:
Developing approaches that utilities and system operators can use to better plan under uncertainty and optimize investments to avoid lock-in and stranded assets.
Supporting an electricity regulator to develop a framework for integrating large loads into the grid while maximizing system benefits and protecting customers from cost shifts.
Designing and facilitating a workshop with hyperscalers and utilities to develop a novel clean procurement or regulatory strategy
Co-authoring thought leadership products on solutions to emerging power sector challenges and priorities.
This role will report to a Manager on the Carbon-Free Electricity Program.
Core Responsibilities
Serve as a subject matter expert on integrated resource planning, demand flexibility, large loads, or regulatory processes within your project teams, ensuring rigor and feasibility of proposed solutions.
Independently scope and execute multiple small projects or workstreams in parallel across different modes of work including: research & thought leadership, technical assistance, workshop design and facilitation.
Lead development of research, insights, and recommendations to support regulatory and planning decisions – synthesizing quantitative and qualitative data.
Design and facilitate workshops, meetings, and convenings with electricity sector stakeholders.
With support from senior staff, structure and create presentations and writing that bring new insights to partners in a clear and compelling manner.
Utilize a variety of project management techniques to ensure the high quality and timely execution of project deliverables as an individual contributor.
Mentor and motivate project team members and resolve any issues throughout project life cycle.
Minimum Qualifications
Advanced degree in an applicable field such as engineering (power systems, mechanical, electrical, civil), economics, computer science, or mathematics.
4+ years of relevant professional experience in related fields, such as utility regulation, utility strategy, climate or energy advocacy, policy, law, or other fields relevant to the decarbonization of electricity systems.
Demonstrated track record in a project-based work environment and of significant work products (e.g., consulting deliverables, peer-reviewed publications, etc.) on topics relevant to this role.
Excellent time management, organization, entrepreneurship, and drive
Familiarity with the electricity industry, including understanding of key trends and stakeholder landscape. Expertise in one or more of the following specific areas is preferred: Utility resource planning practices and regulatory processes; Integration of large loads including data centers into the grid, including large load tariffs, clean energy sourcing, or load forecasting; Distributed energy resources, virtual power plants, demand flexibility, or battery energy storage.
Excellent writing and verbal communication skills
Strong collaboration skills and ability to work across diverse teams and perspectives